What’s an Ombuds?
Let’s be honest, the workplace can be very challenging at times. Employee conflicts with bosses, co-workers, or just any other human at work can leave everyone feeling deflated. These situations can create a negative culture, waste valuable time, and impact both employee retention and organizational productivity. Left unchecked, such issues can also escalate into serious legal headaches.
That’s where an ombuds can help. We provide a safe space for employees to discuss an issue or concern. We explore options to help resolve conflicts and bring systemic concerns to the attention of the organization for resolution.
An important aspect of an ombuds is our independence from the organization. Moreover, everything discussed with the employee is 100% confidential, which is critical to ensuring trust with the employee seeking guidance.
As the only ombuds specializing in the food industry, I have spent my entire career in the food sector — both corporate and non-profit. This, combined with my training as a public health attorney, has given me a clear understanding of the challenges that organizations and employees in this field face as we work to create a healthier and more sustainable food system.
My personal experiences with workplace bullying and abuse allow me to lend a sympathetic ear, while also offering practical advice and strategic direction.
Countless hours of conversations with colleagues have given me clarity into what employees need to thrive at work.
An ombuds benefits an organization by:
Building and improving workplace culture.
Supporting DEI efforts, including racial and social injustice.
Supporting those impacted by harassment.
Preventing bias and harassment issues from escalating.
Reducing complaint investigation time and litigation.
Addressing systemic issues to create healthier organizations.
An ombuds supports employees by:
Lending a confidential and sympathetic ear.
Strategizing how to resolve conflicts with managers and co-workers.
Helping to consider filing a complaint while clarifying company policies.
Helping to bring concerns to HR or other appropriate departments in a way that resolves conflicts
“I've known Michele Simon for 15 years, first as my supervisor and later as a mentor and friend. As an ombuds she offers a calm, empowering, confidential space where employees, especially those who are traumatized, can share their questions, and find support and options. Michele's professional expertise and lived experience are valuable to nonprofits, startups, and corporations of any size.”
— Sarah Mart —
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